Propagating activity patterns in large-scale inhibitory neuronal networks.
The propagation of activity is studied in a spatially structured network model of gamma-aminobutyric acid-containing (GABAergic) neurons exhibiting postinhibitory rebound. In contrast to excitatory-coupled networks, recruitment spreads very slowly because cells fire only after the postsynaptic conductance decays, and with two possible propagation modes. If the connection strength decreases monotonically with distance (on-center), then propagation occurs in a discontinuous manner. If the self- and nearby connections are absent (off-center), propagation can proceed smoothly. Modest changes in the synaptic reversal potential can result in depolarization-mediated waves that are 25 times faster. Functional and developmental roles for these behaviors and implications for thalamic circuitry are suggested.
Rinzel
J
J
Mathematical Research Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA. rinzel@cns.nyu.edu
Terman
D
D
Wang
X
X
Ermentrout
B
B
D005246:Feedback; D007395:Interneurons / Q000502:physiology*; D008564:Membrane Potentials; D008959:Models, Neurological; D009415:Nerve Net / Q000502:physiology*; D009433:Neural Inhibition; D011999:Recruitment, Neurophysiological; D013569:Synapses / Q000502:physiology; D009435:Synaptic Transmission; D013788:Thalamus / Q000502:physiology*; D005680:gamma-Aminobutyric Acid / Q000502:physiology*
D005680:gamma-Aminobutyric Acid